Development of the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM), KIBO for the International Space Station

Abstract

Japan has developed its first manned space facility by completing the Japan Experiment Module (JEM), KIBO for the International Space Station. In this development, NEC was in charge of systems including the Inter-orbit Communication System and Robot Arm System as well as the JEM Control Processor, various experiment devices and the Operations Control System. Putting the first priority on the safety of astronauts at the same time as pursuing operability, universality and versatility, NEC developed each piece of equipment by adding new manned space development requirements to the existing space development technologies and by coordinating them into the uniquely Japanese technologies. At present, the JEM is monitored and is operated on 24-hour schedules for performing various space experiments.